Ancient, British and World Coins, Historical Medals and Banknotes

Victoria (1837-1901), Victoria, Halfcrown, 1866, counterfeit, made early in the present century. Worn (£20-25)

Halfcrowns dated 1866, 1868, and 1871 were accepted as genuine in some quarters a few years ago, despite the fact that mint records indicated none were made. It is now known that these pieces were struck from false dies early in the present century; their worn appearance was a deliberate attempt to emulate the condition of genuine Victorian halfcrowns then circulating.